Rapid climate change has diversified the dynamics of brown planthoppers, necessitating the development of rice cultivars with enhanced resistance. Brown planthoppers contribute to reduced grain yield and quality, and the rapid ecological changes caused by global warming are expected to exacerbate this damage. In Korea, rice cultivars resistant to brown planthoppers have primarily been bred using Bph1, bph2, and Bph18. Despite the known resistance of Bph3 to brown planthoppers, this gene is underutilized in rice breeding programs. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to analyze the association between brown planthopper resistant genes and rice agronomic traits by breeding segregated populations incorporating Bph3, Bph18, and BPH26. Segregated populations were derived from crosses between ‘Jeonju686’ (carrying Bph3 and BPH26) and ‘JJ621MR’ (carrying Bph18). Our analysis revealed that Bph18 was significantly associated with a reduced fertility rate. However, Bph3 did not significantly affect fertility-related traits. As Bph3 has been reported to confer strong resistance to brown planthoppers, it is expected to be actively utilized in future resistance breeding programs. Ultimately, maximizing the efficiency of molecular breeding techniques is expected to provide valuable insights into the development of rice cultivars with enhanced resistance to brown planthoppers.

‘Chamdongjin’ is a rice cultivar with a distinctively large grain size and good palatability, similar to ‘Sindongjin,’ which is a mega-cultivar in Korea. ‘Younghojinmi’ is a rice cultivar known for having the highest taste value among premium quality cultivars. In this study, we conducted quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis of quality-related traits using recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from a cross between ‘Chamdongjin’ and ‘Younghojinmi’ to elucidate their genetic interactions. We analyzed 20 traits, including protein content, amylose content, glossiness of cooked rice, 7 traits related to grain appearance, 6 traits related to pasting properties, and 4 traits related to texture. Quality-related QTL were primarily detected on chromosome 3. In particular, GS3, one of the candidate genes for QTL, significantly influenced quality by affecting 14 different traits, including appearance traits such as head rice and the texture of cooked rice. Furthermore, RILs with the gs3 allele, which exhibited the large grains of ‘Chamdongjin,’ showed a lower protein content and higher amylose content than RILs with the GS3 allele. These lines also had lower head rice percentages and higher percentages of whiteness, opacity, and broken rice, indicating an inferior appearance quality. In terms of pasting properties, RILs with the gs3 allele showed a lower pasting temperature, peak viscosity, and breakdown, but a higher setback than RILs with the GS3 allele. Although the gs3 allele did not affect the glossiness, hardness, or toughness of the cooked rice, it resulted in higher adhesiveness and stickiness. Allelic alteration of the preharvest sprouting gene qLTG3-1 was found to affect seven quality-related traits, including pasting properties. Genes related to heading date (Hd18), culm length (SD1), and tiller number (OsTB1) were also associated with quality-related QTL. Alterations in the alleles of these genes caused variations in quality-related traits. Our identification of the association between quality-related traits and key agronomic genes is expected to support the effective development of rice cultivars with improved quality.

Deep learning has gained considerable interest in agricultural breeding research. While advances in sequencing technologies have made genotypic data collection easier in genomic breeding, phenotypic data collection remains labor intensive and time consuming. Furthermore, as traditional phenotypic data collection relies heavily on manual processes, the results may vary based on the researcher’s skill and criteria. Thus, automated phenotypic data collection is essential for addressing these challenges. In this study, we aimed to develop a deep learning model using the YOLOv8 framework to measure the lengths of hypocotyls and roots in sprout vegetables such as mung bean, cowpea, and soybean. Our model automates the measurement process, accurately identifies the hypocotyl and root using Roboflow, and subsequently measures their lengths with high precision in various legume species. This approach addresses the challenges of extensive phenotypic data collection, which is essential for genetic breeding and agricultural improvement. Our deep learning model facilitates consistent and accurate data collection in large-scale studies by controlling variables influenced by the researcher’s skills and criteria. This reduces errors and enhances data reliability and accuracy, which are crucial for successful breeding practices and agricultural research.

Microspore culture is a key method for rapid development of genetically uniform lines. In this study, we aimed to identify the critical factors influencing the efficiency of microspore culture in Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa), which is an important vegetable crop widely cultivated worldwide for its genetic diversity and nutritional value. To this end, we compared the efficiency of microspore embryogenesis across four different Chinese cabbage genotypes. We selected three accessions representing high, medium, and low efficiencies. Flower buds were harvested to examine pollen developmental stages using a light microscope. Unexpectedly, we found that the genotype with the highest efficiency (Wonkyo20044ho) had abnormally shaped microspores and pollen. In contrast, the genotype with the lowest efficiency (Wonkyo20039ho) had fine, normally shaped pollen. An additional experiment was conducted using the Wonkyo20044ho accession. Different bud sizes were harvested from this accession to observe differences in embryogenesis. The results showed that almost all pollen stages of this genotype were suitable for microspore culture. It can be assumed that the genotype is much more critical for microspore culture efficiency than the developmental stage of the pollen. Our results serve as a valuable reference for improved cabbage breeding methods.

The lack of understanding of topics in uncharted research areas can often be mitigated through a careful review of the existing literature. However, when a field is not well-studied, relying on assumptions before starting a project should be avoided. This article highlights the dangers of such presumptions as demonstrated by the case of brown planthopper (Nilaparvata lugens) detection in rice field. Although unpiloted aerial vehicles (UAVs) have shown promise in various agricultural applications, their effectiveness in the early detection of brown planthopper damage was initially assumed based on the expectation of visible symptoms. The image analysis in the current study indicated that images obtained from a camera mounted on a UAV could not detect the symptoms of the very early stages of damage from brown planthoppers. An overlooked factor was whether the pest damage was uniformly distributed across an entire rice plant. If symptoms appear consistently, early detection using a top-down view from a UAV is possible; otherwise, detection may be delayed. Our findings emphasize the need for thorough preliminary research to avoid failure. By investigating the biological characteristics of the target pest and the potential limitations of detection methods, researchers can greatly improve their chances of success. We hope that readers will recognize the importance of thoroughly examining unexplored areas before embarking on new research.

Leaf size is closely related to photosynthesis and greatly affects rice productivity. Therefore, the search for quantitative trait Locus (QTL) that regulates leaf size is important for improving productivity through rice breeding. The F₉ recombinant inbred line (RIL) population from the cross between ‘Unbong 40’ (large leaves) and ‘Odae’ (ordinary size leaves) was grown in a test field, and the size traits of the flag leaves and 2nd leaves, along with stem and panicle length, were measured. Through QTL analysis of these traits, we detected 20 QTLs on chromosomes 1, 3, 6, 9, 11, and 12. In particular, the flag leaf length QTL qFLL3, the flag leaf area QTL qFLA3, the 2nd leaf length QTL q2LL3-2, and the 2nd leaf area QTL q2LA3 were clustered in the 149.0-161.6 cM region of chromosome 3, indicating that one QTL gene in this region may have pleiotropic effects that regulate the flag leaf length, flag leaf area, 2nd leaf length, and 2nd leaf area. In addition, the flag leaf width QTL qFLW9 and 2nd leaf width QTL q2LW9 were clustered in the 2.1-22.86 cM region on chromosome 9, which suggests that one QTL gene in this region may have pleiotropic effects that regulate both the flag leaf width and 2nd leaf width. These results serve as a valuable reference for breeding programs aiming to increase photosynthesis and yield by identifying QTLs for leaf size traits in Korean japonica rice.

In this study, we aimed to develop a method for the rapid and nondestructive prediction of wheat seed viability using Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS). Thirteen wheat cultivars were used to establish and validate an NIRS calibration model. The seed samples were divided into a calibration set (n=1,360) and a validation set (n=1,000), representing a wide range of germination rates created through the accelerated aging treatment (98±2% relative humidity, 40°C, 0-10 days). Spectral data were collected within the wavelength range of 400-2,500 nm. Among the three regression models tested, the Modified Partial Least Squares (MPLS) model exhibited the best performance for predicting seed viability, achieving the highest coefficient of determination (R²=0.936) and lowest standard error of calibration (SEC=7.514). The results of this study highlight the utility of NIRS-based models for the rapid, nondestructive assessment of seed viability in wheat. Additionally, this is the first study to apply NIRS for the nondestructive evaluation of wheat seed viability, providing a substantial advancement in seed quality assessment.

Doubled haploid (DH) technology is widely used in maize breeding because of its ability to produce 100% homozygous inbred lines within a short period of time. This efficiency has made DH technology an attractive tool for maize breeders, allowing its incorporation into breeding programs. This technology also facilitates advanced breeding techniques such as genome editing and the conversion of elite inbred lines into their cytoplasmic male sterility counterparts. The successful integration of DH technology into various maize breeding programs worldwide has spurred extensive research on the genetic basis and mechanisms underlying haploid induction, leading to the identification of key quantitative trait loci (QTL) aimed at improving efficiency and reducing costs. Additionally, new phenotypic markers are being explored for use along with the R1-nj marker to enhance the accuracy of haploid seed and plant identification. Efforts are underway to identify alternatives to colchicine, a toxic and carcinogenic compound commonly used for chromosome doubling. Nondestructive methods, such as nuclear magnetic resonance, Fourier transform Raman spectroscopy, and flow cytometry, are being developed to enable fast and accurate haploid identification and automate the process for large-scale breeding programs. As these advancements improve DH technology, the maize hybrid breeding paradigm is undergoing a substantial transformation. However, several challenges remain unaddressed.

Wheat, in conjunction with rice and maize, constitutes one of the three most significant staple crops worldwide, sustaining over 40% of the global population. In Korea, the annual per capita wheat consumption exceeds 30 kg, totaling approximately 4 million tons nationwide. However, more than 95% of this demand is met through imports, resulting in a meager self-sufficiency rate of approximately 0.7%, raising concerns regarding supply stability and price fluctuations. Enhancing wheat self-sufficiency in Korea requires addressing yield reductions caused by abiotic stressors, including elevated temperatures, drought, cold damage and pre-harvest sprouting induced by climate change, as well as biotic stressors such as Fusarium head blight. The development of high-quality wheat varieties with superior processing characteristics that satisfy consumer demands is crucial. This study provides critical insights for future research on the development of novel wheat cultivars in Korea. It reviews the current state of wheat cultivation and production, environmental and biological factors affecting growth, compositional elements influencing quality, domestic cultivars developed through conventional crossbreeding currently in commercial distribution, and contemporary breeding trends, with particular emphasis on novel breeding technologies, such as biotechnology.

Aralia elata (Miq.) Seem. is a deciduous broad-leaved shrub distributed throughout northeast Asia, including Korea. The new shoots that sprout in early spring in Korea are consumed as a high-quality wild vegetable. As the trees are easy to cultivate and can be harvested from the second year after planting, they have become a popular forest product for short-term income. Conventional cultivars had large and numerous thorns on their stems and shoots, making pruning or collecting shoots difficult. However, some thornless cultivars exhibited poor cold resistance, which limited their cultivation areas. To solve this problem, excellent trees were selected across the country and tested to develop a novel cultivar with no or few thorns, strong cold resistance, and early harvesting times. Based on these results, the cultivar, ‘Yeongchun’, was bred. Although no significant difference in the size of ‘Yeongchun’ shoots was observed when compared to that of the control, its weight per piece was 34.6 g, which was 74% larger than the 19.9 g measured for the control. Moreover, the number and diameter of shoots originating from primordia in the roots of Yeongchun were 6.1 and 55.7 mm, respectively, which were about twice as large as the 2.6 and 29.7 mm measured for the control, resulting in a higher yield. In addition, the harvesting period was more than a week earlier than that of general individuals, showing the characteristics of early production (Grant number 323).

The rice cultivar, ‘Dapum’, is a high-quality, late-maturing rice with low amylose content developed by the Chungcheongnam-do Agricultural Research and Extension Services (Yesan, Korea). Dapum was derived from a cross between Miho, a processed rice cultivar known for its cultivation stability and low amylose content, as the maternal parent, and Daohuaxing2, a high-quality aromatic rice cultivar, as the paternal parent. Subsequently, a pedigree breeding method was employed, and yield trials conducted from 2019-2020, followed by local adaptability tests from 2020-2021. As a result of the local adaptability test, the heading date of ‘Dapum’ was August 28^th, which is slower than the cultivars mainly cultivated in the Chungnam Province in Korea; therefore, it can be ripened at an appropriate temperature. The yield of milled ‘Dapum’ rice under standard fertilizer conditions was approximately 572 kg/10a, which was 15 kg/10a higher than that of Miho. The amylose content of ‘Dapum’ was 12.5%, similar to that of Miho, and the glossiness of cooked rice, which reflects its indirect eating quality, was 86.8, which was 7.0 points higher than that of Miho. The new rice cultivar, ‘Dapum’, is expected to be used in various ways, such as for cooked and processed rice, due to its low amylose content and good eating quality. Further, it has the potential to enhance the competitiveness of rice production in the Chungnam Province by diversifying the rice market, which has traditionally focused on mid-maturing, non-glutinous rice (Registration No. 10181).

ThexTriticosecale Wittmack ‘Shinjoseong’ variety was developed for use as a whole-crop silage obtained from a cross between CTSS93Y00058S-5Y-0Y-0B with early heading, lodging, and resistance to barley yellow mosaic virus and Suwon24 with winter-hardy and lodging-resistance traits by the National Institute of Crop Science (Wanju, Korea) in 2019. Shinjoseong has medium-sized green leaves, slightly short-length spikes with a light-yellow color, and slightly large seeds with a light yellow-brown color. Compared to the comparable cultivar, Shinyoung, Shinjoseong had a heading date of three days earlier (April 22^nd, nationwide), stronger cold and lodging resistances, and the same level of disease resistance. Its average dry matter yield was 17.18 t/ha, 5% higher than that of the comparable cultivar. The crude protein, acid and neutral detergent fiber, and total digestible nutrient contents of Shinjoseong were 6.5%, 34.9%, 58.8%, and 61.3%, respectively, slightly higher than those of the comparable cultivar. However, the silage grade of Shinjoseong was 2, the same as that of the comparable variety. The grain yield of Shinjoseong was 7.36 t/ha, 13% higher than that of Shinyoung (Grant No. 9757).

Here, we report on the development of a high-quality, bicolor waxy corn, ‘Mihyeonchal’, containing anthocyanin. ‘Mihyeonchal’ was produced by crossing the two inbred lines, HW18 as the seed parent and HW19 as the pollen parent. The hybrid was made in 2016 and has been evaluated for three years in Hongcheon, Yeoncheon, Cheongju, Daegu, Jinju, and Suwon in Korea since 2017. The days to silking of ‘Mihyeonchal’ was 72 days, which was three days earlier than that of the standard variety, ‘Ilmichal’. The number and weight of fresh ears of ‘Mihyeonchal’ were 112% and 96%, respectively, compared to those of ‘Ilmichal’, and the anthocyanin content was 76.8 mg/kg, which was higher than that of ‘Ilmichal’. The lodging index was 1.9, which was weaker than that of ‘Ilmichal’, but its resistance to insects and diseases was stronger than that of ‘Ilmichal’, confirming the cultivation stability of ‘Mihyeonchal’. As a result of regional yield trials that had been conducted for three years, we confirmed that ‘Mihyeonchal’ could be cultivated in all regions in Korea and was an excellence variety. The plant variety protection right of ‘Mihyeonchal’ was registered in April 2024, and its grant number is 10127.

The newly developed citrus cultivar, ‘Miraehyang’, was bred at the Citrus Research Center of the National Institute of Horticultural and Herbal Science (Jeju, Korea) by crossing ‘Ehime Kashi No.28’ (maternal parent) and ‘Hayaka Ponkan’ (paternal parent). The first fruiting of ‘Miraehyang’ occurred in 2016, and field evaluations were conducted until 2021. After final selection in 2021, the cultivar was officially registered for plant variety protection in 2024. The tree exhibits strong vigor, an open growth habit, and high fruit-bearing capacity. When grown in a plastic greenhouse, ‘Miraehyang’ showed minimal occurrence of puffing and fruit-cracking. New shoots emerged in late March, and flowering began in late April, with full bloom occurring in mid-May. The average fruit weight was between 150-200 g, and the fruit shape slightly flattened with a small apex. Coloring started in mid-October and completed by mid-December, resulting in a deep orange hue. The fruit is rich in juice with thin membranes, providing a tender texture. Under unheated greenhouse conditions, the fruit matured in mid-to-late December and had a soluble solids content of 12-13°Bx and acidity of approximately 1.0%. Peel thickness averaged at 3.3 mm, similar to that of ‘Ehime Kashi No.28’, but with improved ease of peeling. This cultivar is male-sterile, producing seedless fruit when grown alone. Similar to its maternal parent, ‘Ehime Kashi No.28’, ‘Miraehyang’ is susceptible to citrus canker but resistant to scab. ‘Miraehyang’ is expected to gain high consumer preference due to its ease of cultivation, superior peelability, and outstanding fruit quality and appearance (Variety registration number: 10180).

The soybean cultivar, ‘Jangpung’, is adaptable for mechanized harvest with fewer branches and a higher first pod height. ‘Jangpung’ was developed through a pedigree method involving a cross between ‘Shingi’ and ‘SS03102-B-B-3S-21-4’ cultivars from 2010-2021. The promising line, ‘YS2243-B-B-35-1-1-1’, was selected and designated as ‘Milyang361’, whereafter it was tested in regional yield trials (RYT) for three years from 2019-2021. Its performance and stability were approved after the RYT and thereafter released as ‘Jangpung’. It has a determinate growth habit, purple flowers, grey pubescence, yellow seed coat, yellow hilum, spherical seed shape, and large seeds (28.2 g/100 seeds). ‘Jangpung’ is a late-maturing cultivar; its flowering and maturing dates were 9 August and 22 October, respectively. ‘Jangpung’ exhibited resistance to bacterial pustule and soybean mosaic virus, as well as tolerance to lodging and shattering resistance, as confirmed through genetic validation using the marker, qPDH-KS. Considering its higher first pod height, lodging and shattering tolerance, and disease resistance, the soybean cultivar, ‘Jangpung’, might assist soybean producers in achieving high adaptability for mechanization and paddy field cultivation (Registration number: 9972).

In 2022, Jindami was developed as an early maturing mealy sweet potato variety. It was derived from a cross between Dahomi (IT309420) with early maturity and Jinyulmi (IT327287) with early maturity and good palatability. The storage roots of Jindami have a light-purple skin, yellow flesh, and a reverse-ovate shape. When steamed, Jindami storage roots exhibit a mealy texture and are tenderer than those of the check variety, Jinyulmi. The sugar content of steamed Jindami storage roots was 25.4 mg/100 g on a dry weight basis, which was 6.0% higher than that of Jinyulmi. The marketable yield of Jindami storage roots was 28.6 t/ha in the early-season production, which was 19.2% higher than that of Jinyulmi with high yield in the early-season production. Jindami is resistant to root-knot nematode and Fusarium wilt. Jindami is expected to contribute to an increased income for sweet potato-growers as it has good palatability and can be shipped at a time when the market price is high owing to its high yield in the early-season production.